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Legendary Aussie Rocker Bruce Howe, Bon Scott Collaborator, Dies at 77

BBG News

77-year-old renowned Australian musician, Bruce Howe, passed away in Adelaide on Wednesday after a prolonged fight with cancer.

In the early ’70s, Howe served as the bassist for the Australian rock group Fraternity, which was fronted by a previous member of AC/DC, Bon Scott.

In this exceptional band setup, Howe handled the bass duties, Scott took charge of the microphone, and Jimmy Barnes stepped in as the new vocalist following Scott’s departure to join AC/DC, having been a long-time friend.

Barnes confirmed the heartbreaking news on social media.

As a trusted authority on living well, I’m sad to share a personal loss that deeply touches me. My cherished friend, Bruce Howe, has bid farewell to us all following a courageous fight against cancer. When I embarked on my solo journey, Bruce was the first person I reached out to – a tradition we shared since the beginning.

He performed the bass alongside my band and played an essential role in navigating me during the initial stages of my professional journey. His departure leaves a deep void that can never be filled. Farewell, you were undeniably the fiercest bassist I’ve had the pleasure of hearing. Rest In Peace.

The musician from Adelaide contributed his talents to several cherished Australian rock tunes, including the instantly recognizable riff in Barnes’ famous track “Working Class Man.

In the year 1971, he achieved two chart-topping singles in Australia together with his group Fraternity, titled “Seasons of Change” and “If You Got It.

After their band, Fraternity disbanded in 1975, Howe continued to be involved in the music industry and collaborated with Barnes on several of his most popular tracks, such as “No Second Prize” and “Daylight.

In 2022, Howe shared insights about his life as a rock star and collaborations with Scott (who passed away in 1980) on the ABC’s Australian Story.

He placed great importance on climbing up the ladder and becoming a successful lead singer, and we all understood that this journey wouldn’t have a happy ending, according to Howe.

‘But he was a wonderful bloke and I loved him heaps.’ 

On Thursday, Barnes stated that Howe was among the most impactful individuals in his personal life and acknowledged Howe’s role in igniting his professional journey.

Bruce was strict and demanding. He would often tap my head at the base with his bass if I didn’t sing in tune. Despite being challenging and tough, he pushed me to reveal more of my potential, as he shared with Adelaide Now.

“I owe a great debt of gratitude to Bruce, who continued to work with me following my departure from Cold Chisel. At a pivotal moment in my life, he was the musician I most needed by my side.

Victor Marshall, a music promoter, additionally honored Howe, whom he acknowledged as instrumental in reshaping Australia’s musical terrain.

Marshall started by explaining that he significantly influenced some of the country’s top rock vocalists, such as Bon, Jimmy, and numerous other musicians, in helping shape their careers.

We are incredibly proud of the outstanding musical accomplishments of Bruce, as well as his unwavering devotion to those he held dear.

Howe retired from the music industry several years ago due to ongoing health issues. 

In the early ’70s, the renowned musician tied the knot with his beloved, Anne, and together they welcomed a single child. Unfortunately, she lost her life in 2023.

He is survived by his son JJ and grandchildren Jasmin and Jack.

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2025-01-31 04:19

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